On Friday 12 August Mary Immaculate, Eagle Vale held its first ever Mini Vinnies Mini Winter Sleepout. Close to 40 students from Year 5 and 6, Mrs Murray, Mr David Gearing (from the Catholic Education Wollongong CLEM Team - Social Justice) and 7 teachers took part in this evening event. 

All were able to experience for a few hours the coldness and discomfort that many of our community members do on a nightly basis as well as having to make their own shelter to survive the evening and share a small meal with their ‘street neighbours.’

Students also helped to make 25 care packages for those who live on the streets - these packs included thermal socks, beanies, gloves, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand sanitiser, sanitary items and RAT tests. Care packages will be donated to St Vincent de Paul to be disturbed by the Street Van on their nightly patrol. 

It was great to see students understand, sympathise and begin to empathise with those on the streets. It was a wonderful experience for both students and staff to explore ways to put their faith into action and be church in the world. 

Our Winter Appeal this year - the sleepout and mufti day - has raised more than $3,500.00 for this wonderful initiative. Thank you to all who gave generously in sponsorship to students completing the sleepout. 

Our top 5 fundraisers were presented with small prizes for their efforts at last weeks assembly: 

1st Mark K (Yr6)  $445.00, 2nd Jordan S (Yr5) $355.00, 3rd Chelsean D (Yr5) $220.00.

4th Adelle B (Yr6) $205.00, 5th Chloe K (Yr6) $204.10.